Meet The Graduates (Master's Degree Students)

Jessica DeSantis M.S., Environmental Policy Design Why She Did It:“I got to learn more about the world I want to shape.” On The Road:“I travel extensively in the fall, classmates recorded lectures for me, and my professors were flexible and understanding.” Now That She’s Done:“So many more doors have opened up for me. But I want to take time to re-discover my hobbies, relax, and hang my photographs on the wall of my house.”

Rich Haas M.B.A. Why He Did It: “I did it because I wanted to push myself. Lehigh is a competitive environment; you are expected to challenge yourself.”Highlight Of The Program: A culminating trip to London to meet business and government leaders, and learn more about the 2012 Olympics legacy. Now That He’s Done:“I’m really looking forward to spending more time with my family, but of course I’ll be looking for my next opportunity to grow as well.”

Katy CroninM.B.A. Why She Did It:“You’re surrounded by education, it’s contagious. It’s like you have to be a part of it.”On Being A Working Graduate Student: “Full time students only take a few more credits at a time. Professors are very understanding of work pressures. It’s so different from undergraduate study. You’re trusted to do the work, but the onus is on you to get out of it what you want.” Now That She’s Done: “I’m going to enjoy the summer, spend time with my baby nephew, work on fixing up the house with my husband, and go to the beach!”

Amanda Fabrizio M.Ed., Educational Leadership How She Managed:“It’s all about finding the balance. When you go to graduate school full time, that’s the number one focus. But when you work full time (and serve as president of a service organization), you have to balance things and manage your time more effectively.”On Working Where You Study:“It was a big advantage. For example, for my grant writing class, I could tap into my network in Advancement.” An Emotional Moment: “I thought I would cry when I walked across the stage, but I was too excited knowing I would get to shake Bill Nye’s hand! When you’re working full time and working on a degree it’s so much work and such a commitment. It feels amazing to complete it.”